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[N6HWW]

I have searched high and low for a description of how to interface Winlink Packet to an IC-7100 without utilizing a Signalink.

I have successfully used Winlink VARA HF connected to an IC-7100 which proves Signalink is not required.

Any pointers to video or documentation is appreciated.

[AD7EF]

Here's a very detailed document on how to do it: https://www.gaares.org/documents/IC-7100A_PacketRadioSet-up-20170709.pdf

Note, however, that this document recommends using a utility named "CAT7200", to implement a virtual "USB serial port" that keys the transmitter via a CAT command.

CAT7200 works, but is a bit complicated to set up. It is no longer necessary to use CAT7200, because the same functionality is now built into the 'UZ7HO SoundModem' virtual-TNC software that is called out in this guide. The instructions for setting up the PTT functionality (instead of using the CAT7200 utility) are available on the UZ7HO web site.

You'll find that the IC-7100 built-in sound-card system works great for Winlink 1200bps packet and VARA FM 'NARROW' operation, but the built-in hardware does not have the audio bandwidth to allow either 9600bps packet or full-throughout VARA FM 'WIDE' operation.

Mark - AD7EF

[N6HWW]

The instructions for setting up the PTT functionality (instead of using the CAT7200 utility) are available on the UZ7HO web site.

Mark,

Thank you for the pointers. I went on http://uz7.ho.ua/ and could not find the instructions you are referring to in your reply. Could you provide the link?

I'm having a great time using VARA HF on the 7100 and 7300, but no luck using Packet Winlink on the 7100 in VHF/UHF. I think everything is there except the PTT configuration.

[N6HWW]

Okay, I finally figured it out! The trick is in the PTT section of the SoundModem Settings => Devices. I was putting in COM3 or COM4 as that is what I did for the VARA HF configuration.

In this case, under PTT Port
    Select PTT port = CAT
Then click Advanced PTT setting

CAT Settings for Port 1
    Radio IC7100
    COM port COM3
    Baudrate 19200
    Data bits 8
    Parity None
    Stop bits 1
    DTR On
    RTS On

[AD7EF]

Henry;

If you have any VARA FM gateways in your area, give VARA FM a try. The throughput on the VARA FM 'NARROW' mode supported by the IC-7100 built-in USB hardware is -MANY- times faster than 1200 bps packet.

Here's a great guide, from the winlink.org web-site, for getting VARA FM working on your IC-7100: https://winlink.org/sites/default/files/RMSE_FORMS/ic-7100_vara_fm_manual_setup_v20190225a.pdf

73

Mark - AD7EF

[N6HWW]

After working through all of the issues associated with connecting my Windows 10 computer to my ICOM 7100 using only a USB cable, I wrote my own detailed ICOM IC7100, Windows 10, supporting Winlink Packet installation document, which is located here:

https://www.hankwright.com/img/g153432814-o69902304.dat?dl=2&tk=pJb6Z6eS8yrC-wG_hV15wyVvoHb69OR5dec2CiSCN2I=

[AD7EF]

N6HWW - Excellent guide!

There's one additional point that your readers would benefit from. Our local ARES groups regularly practice using Winlink for both packet and VARA digital message handling on VHF / UHF bands. We have found many scenarios where P2P (Peer-to-Peer) digital messaging is an extremely valuable tool. This is even more true if internet service is compromised regionally during an event.

Regardless of whether you choose 1200 bps packet or VARA for performing P2P VHF / UHF digital messaging, the ability to coordinate message handling with voice communications, on the same frequency, is essential. The Icom IC-7100 poses some challenges when trying to perform voice communications when the radio is configured for digital VHF / UHF messaging... in the digital messaging configuration, the microphone is disabled. Switching back and forth between digital messaging and voice-capable configurations is very problematic on this radio... especially in the heat of a genuine emergency!

The recommended solution is to have the digital messaging configuration, and voice configuration on the same frequency, stored in adjacent memory channels.  Then, it's a simply a matter of rotating the 'M-CH' knob to switch back and forth between the digital messaging configuration and the voice configuration on a P2P circuit.

You might consider adding that recommendation at the end of your document.

73

Mark - AD7EF

[K9RJ]

N6HWW. Your guide no longer seems to be available.
"500 - Internal server error.
There is a problem with the resource you are looking for, and it cannot be displayed."

I am trying to get an IC-705 working on Winlink and hoping the IC-7100 instructions will work. Any chance you could repost the correct link?

[K3RW]

I am also looking to setup my 7100 on Winlink, and I've been considering using either the DireWolf software method, or using a PK-232MBX. 

Any recommendations on which way to go?